The Perfectly Bold 10th Day of Christmas Coffee – Espresso Magic
Espresso Magic
We've made it to the 10th Day of Christmas Coffee, and today is all about keeping it simple, strong, and oh-so-bold. If the holidays have you running around like crazy—wrapping gifts, hosting friends, attending endless events—then this is the day for you. Because let's face it, sometimes we need a coffee that does the job with no fuss.
Enter the hero of the coffee world: espresso.
It's small, powerful, and doesn't need any bells or whistles. It's just pure, rich coffee goodness in a tiny cup. Today, we're exploring the beauty of espresso and why its simplicity is actually its greatest strength. Plus, I'll share how to pair it with a festive pastry to take your morning (or afternoon) to a whole new level of holiday joy.
So, grab your favorite mug—or espresso cup—and let's dive in!
Why Espresso Deserves the Spotlight
There's something special about espresso. Did you know that it was first brewed in Italy in the early 20th century? Unlike lattes, cappuccinos, or fancy flavored drinks, espresso doesn't hide behind milk or sugar. It's just coffee in its truest, boldest form. If you love your coffee unadulterated and full of flavor, this is your drink.
Growing up in an Italian household, I remember my grandmother making espresso on the stove after we enjoyed a Sunday dinner or holiday meal.
But espresso is more than just strong. It's rich, complex, and packed with nuances that change depending on your chosen beans. You might taste chocolatey notes in one shot and bright, citrusy tones in another. Every time you pull a shot, it's like a tiny, delicious science experiment.
And let's be honest—there's nothing more extraordinary than sipping an espresso and feeling like you've got your life together. It's the drink of choice for busy holiday mornings or those moments when you need an afternoon boost that doesn't leave you feeling weighed down.
The Perfect Espresso Recipe
If you have an espresso machine or a Moka pot, today's your day to shine. Pulling a great shot of espresso is easier than you might think, but it does take a little practice. Here's a step-by-step guide to making espresso that'll fuel your holiday leaps.
What You'll Need
Espresso machine or Moka pot (a stovetop espresso maker works beautifully if you don't have a machine)
Freshly ground coffee beans (grind them finely, like table salt)
Filtered water
An espresso cup (because a beautiful shot deserves a beautiful cup)
Instructions
Start with great coffee. The key to a delicious espresso is high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans. Go for something medium to dark roast, depending on your flavor preferences.
Measure and prep. Aim for about 18-20 grams of finely ground coffee if you're using an espresso machine. Pack it into your portafilter and level it out so it's smooth and even.
Pull the shot. It should take 25-30 seconds to brew. You'll see the magic happen as the dark, rich coffee starts to flow, topped with that beautiful, golden crema.
No machine? No problem! If you're using a Moka pot, fill the bottom chamber with water, add your coffee grounds to the filter basket, and assemble the pot. Place it on the stove over medium heat. As the water heats, the pressure will push the coffee up through the spout—resulting in a strong, espresso-like brew. This is the method that both my mom and my grandmother used.
Enjoy immediately. Espresso is best served fresh and hot. Pour it into your favorite cup, inhale that rich aroma, and sip slowly.
Pair It with a Festive Pastry
While espresso is wonderful on its own, it really shines when paired with the right snack. The holidays are all about indulgence, so why not treat yourself to a festive pastry that complements the bold flavors of your espresso?
Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Classic Italian Biscotti
Biscotti and espresso are a match made in heaven. The crunchy, almond-studded cookie is perfect for dipping into your shot of espresso, softening it just enough to soak up the rich coffee flavor.
Croissants (Plain or Almond)
There's something so luxurious about pairing espresso with a flaky, buttery croissant. If you want to up the holiday vibes, go for an almond croissant—sweet, nutty, and irresistible.
Panettone
Staying on theme with Italian holiday treats, panettone (a traditional Italian Christmas bread) is light, slightly sweet, and filled with candied fruit. It's the perfect balance for a bold espresso.
Cinnamon Rolls
Soft, gooey, and topped with icing, a cinnamon roll feels like the ultimate holiday indulgence. The spiced sweetness pairs beautifully with the rich bitterness of espresso.
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These fudgy, festive cookies are dusted with powdered sugar and look like little snow-covered treats. Espresso brings out the deep chocolate flavor, creating the perfect combo.
Shortbread Cookies
Simple, buttery shortbread is an excellent choice for a snack that's not overly sweet but still festive.
Why is Pairing Important?
It is essential to find a snack that complements your coffee. Espresso's bitterness pairs beautifully with sweet, buttery, or spiced treats. Growing up, we always had sweet Italian pastries after dinner. I remember my grandfather especially enjoying his espresso with a cannoli.
Think about it this way: Espresso is strong and intense. A pastry adds sweetness and texture, softening the boldness and giving you a moment of pure holiday joy.
So take a minute to savor the combination, whether you're team biscotti, croissant, or cinnamon roll. Let the espresso wake you up, let the pastry satisfy your sweet tooth, and let yourself pause to enjoy the moment. It's these little indulgences that make the holidays so special.
Let's Talk Coffee and Snack Combos
Now that we've covered some ideas, what's your favorite coffee-and-snack combo? Are you a classic biscotti dipper, or do you prefer a more decadent pairing like espresso and chocolate cake?
I'm a big fan of the espresso + almond croissant combo. The buttery layers, the nutty sweetness, and the strong, smooth espresso—chef's kiss.
The 10th Day of Christmas Coffee Vibes
If you ask me, espresso is the unsung hero of the holiday season. It's quick, strong, and gives you that little jolt of energy you need to keep going when you'd rather collapse on the couch.
Yet, it's also a drink to savor. There's something about holding that tiny cup, watching the crema settle, and taking that first sip. My grandparents are the second generation in this country, and they definitely lived a slower-paced life than many of us do today.
In a moment of calm in the chaos, a little ritual like an espresso and a pastry reminds you to slow down—even if it's just for a minute.
On this 10th Day of Christmas Coffee, I encourage you to embrace the simplicity of espresso. Pair it with your favorite holiday pastry, sit by the tree, and take a deep breath. The holidays are busy, but there's magic in these little moments.
Final Sip
Espresso isn't just coffee—it's an experience. It's bold, beautiful, and exactly what we need during the busyness of the holidays. Whether you're sipping it solo or pairing it with a treat, celebrate coffee in its purest form.
So here's my challenge to you: Pull a shot of espresso, grab a pastry, and enjoy the simplicity of the moment.
Cheers to the 10th Day of Christmas Coffee. May your espresso be strong, your pastries be sweet, and your day be full of holiday cheer.
Until next time…
Patty Bonsera is the founder and editor-in-chief of Local Coffee Talk Magazine and host of the Local Coffee Talk Podcast. She combines her love for sharing the stories of specialty coffee and the passionate people behind them with her own love of travel and coffee to foster the connections among coffee enthusiasts, travelers, and local communities. Through her work with the magazine and podcast, she strives to inspire meaningful experiences and celebrate the vibrant culture of specialty coffee, one cup and conversation at a time.
